The Santuario della Madonna del Frassino
November 5, 2025
Historic center of Peschiera del Garda, what to see and do
November 6, 2025
Why Visit Parco Sigurtà and Borghetto
If you are staying at Locanda Al Santuario in Peschiera del Garda, you have the chance to plan one of the most beautiful and relaxing excursions in the area: a visit to the Parco Giardino Sigurtà and the medieval village of Borghetto sul Mincio.
Both destinations are less than 15 minutes from Peschiera and easily reachable by car, by bike, or even through a pleasant guided tour. It is the perfect itinerary for a peaceful day surrounded by nature, history, and scenic beauty.
Parco Sigurtà is one of the most awarded and beloved gardens in Europe, while Borghetto is a medieval gem suspended over the Mincio River, famous for its watermills, stone houses, and romantic atmosphere. Two different places that complement each other perfectly, ideal for anyone looking for a day of greenery, calm, and discovery.
Parco Sigurtà: the dream botanical garden
Located in Valeggio sul Mincio, the Parco Giardino Sigurtà is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in Northern Italy. With more than 60 hectares of lawns, flower-lined avenues, centuries-old trees, and panoramic viewpoints, it offers a visit that enchants both adults and children.
The park can be explored on foot, by bicycle, aboard the panoramic train, or with electric rental vehicles. Each season offers a different experience:
- In spring, you walk among vast fields of tulips.
- In summer, you discover water gardens and shaded areas perfect for picnics.
- In autumn, the foliage colors make the scenery even more magical.
Among the park’s most beloved spots are the Avenue of Roses with a view of the Scaliger Castle of Valeggio, the Labyrinth with two-meter-high hedges, the Hermitage and the Little Castle, small historical gems surrounded by greenery, and of course the Great Lawn, a huge open space perfect for relaxing.
Parco Sigurtà is open from March to November, with peak blooming between March and June. The tulip season, in particular, is considered one of the most spectacular in Europe.
For more information on opening hours and discounted tickets, you can click here.
What to See in the Park: an Itinerary Among Nature and Fairy-Tale Views
The Parco Giardino Sigurtà is so large and diverse that it can be experienced in many ways depending on your time and interests. Here is a simple half-day itinerary, ideal for a relaxed and complete visit.
The main entrance welcomes you with a view of the Avenue of Roses, a long flowered walkway that becomes an explosion of colors during the blooming season. At the end of the avenue, you can see the Scaliger Castle — one of the most photographed views in the park.
As you continue, you reach the Great Lawn, a vast and impeccably maintained grass field bordered by two ponds with water lilies, lotus flowers, and ducks. It’s the perfect place to stop for a moment, relax, or enjoy a picnic.
The Labyrinth is a fun and curious stop, with hedges over two meters tall and a central tower to reach. Not far away, the Hermitage and the Little Castle offer a more meditative and historical corner, perfect for those seeking silence.
For families with children, the park offers playgrounds and refreshment areas with ice cream and snacks. Bicycles can also be rented inside the park, or you can hop on the tourist train for a full tour without effort.
A visit can last anywhere from two hours to a full day, depending on your pace. Bringing a water bottle and, in summer, a hat is recommended.
Borghetto sul Mincio: mills, history, and relaxation
After leaving Parco Sigurtà, it’s definitely worth heading — on foot or by car — to the nearby village of Borghetto sul Mincio, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. The historic center is very small and can be visited in less than an hour, but it offers a magical, timeless atmosphere.
The heart of the village is the Mincio River, which flows gently between stone houses and still powers some of the old watermills today. The narrow streets lead to the famous Visconti Bridge, a fortified dam built in the 14th century by the Visconti family for defensive purposes.
Walking along the small bridges and restaurant terraces overlooking the water is a real pleasure, especially at sunset when the light colors the houses and reflects off the river. Borghetto is also the perfect place to taste the famous Tortellini di Valeggio, known as “love knots,” in one of the local trattorias.
Recommended restaurants include those with terraces overlooking the river, ideal for a romantic lunch or a cool summer dinner. Some offer tasting menus, others serve traditional Veneto and Mantuan dishes.
The perfect amount of time to enjoy Borghetto is around an hour and a half, including a walk, photos, and maybe a coffee with a view.
How to Get There, Where to Eat, and Why Start from Peschiera del Garda
One of the best things about visiting Parco Sigurtà and Borghetto is their proximity to Peschiera del Garda, one of the most convenient and strategic towns to stay in while exploring the lake.
If you are staying at Locanda Al Santuario, you can reach both destinations easily:
- By car: about 15 minutes from Peschiera to Valeggio sul Mincio
- By bike: along the Mincio cycle path, a beautiful flat route following the river (about 10 km, suitable for everyone)
- By taxi or private transfer: recommended if you want a worry-free visit
Parking is available at Parco Sigurtà (paid) and in Borghetto (some free, some with daily fee).
Where to Eat
For lunch or dinner, you’ll find plenty of options. In Valeggio, there are many restaurants just a short walk from the park. If you prefer a romantic, scenic atmosphere, Borghetto is ideal — with restaurants just meters from the water.
Don’t miss the famous Tortellini di Valeggio, made according to tradition with thin pasta and a meat filling, served with butter and sage.
Borghetto and Parco Sigurtà: a perfect day trip from Peschiera del Garda
Parco Sigurtà and Borghetto sul Mincio are two gems of the Verona area and absolutely worth visiting — especially if you are staying in a strategic location like Peschiera del Garda.
If you’re staying at Locanda Al Santuario, you can easily spend a full day discovering these places immersed in nature and history, without long drives or complications. It’s the perfect excursion for families, couples, and travelers seeking tranquility, beauty, and authenticity.
From breakfast at the Locanda, to a stroll among the flowers of Parco Sigurtà, to dinner in one of the riverside restaurants in Borghetto — it’s a simple plan, but truly unforgettable.
